Supreme Court Questions Why Stubble-Burning Farmers Evade Arrest; Calls For Stricter Action

The Supreme Court has challenged the government on its soft stance toward stubble burning, asking why violators escape arrest.

The Chief Justice reminded that farming is essential, but environmental harm impacts everyone. He recommended stronger intervention, including arrests, to prevent ongoing stubble burning.

Farmers in Punjab, Haryana, western Uttar Pradesh and Delhi frequently resort to burning leftover crops after harvest. The practice is quick and cheap, but it comes at a high cost, releasing pollutants that heavily degrade air quality.

The Court observed that earlier directions aimed at reducing the practice have seen weak enforcement.

Lawyers pointed out that although subsidies and alternative machinery exist, support often arrives too late or in insufficient numbers.

Delayed government supplies and logistical hurdles leave farmers with limited options, making burning the most convenient solution. Monitoring gaps, such as failed satellite checks, only add to the problem.

Punjab authorities admitted that efforts to cut pollution are ongoing, but many small-scale farmers face challenges. Limited land and resources make it hard to use alternatives, and strict penalties could unfairly affect their households.

Chief Justice Gavai emphasised that the goal is not to punish farmers randomly, but to send a firm warning. If state authorities keep postponing enforcement, the Court indicated it may have to intervene with mandatory directives.

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